If you’ve been shivering somewhere off the UK coastline, longing for a stretch of sunlit beach – we’re going to steer you towards Morocco. Rarely will a surfer be more rewarded. There’s almost 150 surf spots to choose from – and they all come fully loaded with upwards of 300 days of sunshine. It’s at this point we should probably stop stalling and clue you in to the waves. Peeling that’ll make your surfer’s heart melt. Barrels that’ll intimidate all but the bravest boarders and beginner lagoons tame enough to tempt in even the most timid newbies. If you haven’t already started furiously waxing your board in anticipation, read on. There’s more to Morocco surfing than sunshine and a few nice waves. And we promise not to point you towards a souq – unless you happen to be in the market for some leather slippers, of course?
Surfing Morocco
Before we serve up the surf goodies you’re here for, a quick word about the big names you’ll want to check out. Taghazout, Essaouira and Agadir. Great for anyone dipping a toe in the surfing Morocco scene – not ideal for finding a quiet stretch of coast to call your own. And of those? There are plenty. Miles and miles of uninhabited sand – and sea, are yours to explore.
We’ve started you off with the pick of the bunch from Taghazout – and then given you some solid surf spots to really inspire your nomadic surf heart. Because really, other than ramblers, is there a group more prone to a good explore than surfers? We thought not.
The best waves in Morocco
Killer Point - Taghazoute
Ok, so anyone with a board and a smartphone will pitch up in Taghazoute eventually. But bailing on Taghazoute to surf elsewhere? Criminal. So, what’s the fuss about? Almost permanent swells that aren’t short on power – and consistent offshore winds. And, as the name suggests, there are some interesting locals about. You’ll be sharing the waters with resident killer whales – and some seriously experienced surfers. Great if you’re in the market for some tips.
To get your board in the water – head to Banana Point. The waves there are more forgiving. Nightlife here won’t rival Marrakech’s best nightclubs but things are changing fast. Dfrost is the place for a cold beer and chilled out company.
Orbzii tip: If you’re beyond the soft board stage but feel a little intimidated by Killer Point, head to Hash Point. Locals surf the fun right-hander until sundown. Expect fast and large swells – but crucially it’s away from the more crowded Anchor Point.
Les Tomates - Oualidia
Looking for a surfing sweet spot in Morocco? Oualidia is it. Amped young surfers – we’re talking 6 years and up, pop up on their first waves in the lagoon. But don’t dismiss Oualidia as a beginner’s beach. Pro-surfers come here to train. And heirs to the Moroccan throne give these waters the royal wave of approval. Which, in any other country, might make this a gathering place for onlookers and crowds. But surprisingly, given the year-round guaranteed swells and relatively quiet waters, you’ll rarely be vying for wave space in Oualidia.
The surroundings aren’t too shabby either. Think village chic rather than buzzing beach town. Lux hotel, La Sultana, has a spa that will more than ease away any surf-induced sprains and strains.
Orbzii tip: Beginners need to stick to the lagoon, Les Tomates is for the experienced surfers among us only.
The Garden - Safi
How many superlatives can we throw at one wave? Best, strongest, fastest, biggest – you’ll find them all bandied about to describe conditions at The Garden. Yes, the barrels here are epic but be prepared to ride them with others when conditions are right. And that right there is why we debated putting Safi on the list.
Summer can see less than inspiring waves – but when the surfing Morocco stars align, the long, fast, hollow barrels are the surf of a lifetime. Tubes reach into distances measuring a couple of hundred feet. If you can handle riding a barrel for up to 15 seconds – and have the patience to wait for perfection, you’ll love Safi.
Orbzii tip: In town and the surf’s unridable? Have a mooch around the streets. Safi’s street art is as big as its legendary waves.
The Bay (Reef Point) - Imsouane
If The Garden has the biggest waves, The Bay’s in contention for Africa’s longest wave. Surfing in Morocco holds its own among the world’s best conditions. The drawback? Imsouane is a tad remote. Though, if a hot – possibly dusty road trip doesn’t amp up the need to get in the water, nothing will. Once you’re in Imsouane, you’ve got four surf spots to choose from. The Bay’s hold’s the longest wave title, but Cathedral Point Break is where you’ll find monster barrels – when the winter swells brew up.
Orbzii tip: Newbies, you might see surfers on the reef and slab area. Avoid the slab. The rocky seabed isn’t a place to be caught up in a washing machine. Stick to the reef – where the sea floor is sandy enough to avoid too many scrapes.
Alternative Morocco surf spots
Legzira Beach
While everyone’s ticking Agadir and Taghazoute off their ‘must surf’ list – sneak off to Legzira Beach instead. The Coastal architecture’s top notch. Facilities aren’t bad either. A surf shop – for those inevitable ‘I can’t believe I left that at home’ moments and a handful of restaurants for a quick bite between waves. Famous for its arches – though one has sadly succumbed to the waves, there’s still plenty for photographers to snap at. You’ll not find a more beautiful beach to surf in Morocco – and we don’t say that lightly.
Tamraght
If you want to be within touching distance of Taghazoute’s facilities – but far from the busy waves and tourist-vibes, get your board in the water at Tamraght. Your setting is a small fishing village, where you’re more likely to see camels on the streets than backpackers. Devil’s Rock is the sweet spot – with conditions that’ll make all surfers smile. Plant-based dishes grace the menus, but nightlife is thin on the ground. Luckily, Taghazoute’s clubs are just a 4-mile skate, bike or walk away on the coast path.
Orbzii tip: Nearby Aourir has a market to rival any souq you’ll find in Agadir. It’s where the residents do their shopping – and they’re rarely in the market for souvenirs.
Pro Tips
Surfing in Morocco for more than a week or so? Consider a guide. Yes, we’ve pointed you in the right direction for the ultimate surfing break in Morocco, but you can’t beat on-the-ground insider knowledge and up to the minute forecasts. Clues to finding those all-important winding roads that lead to surfing glory come in handy too.
Speaking of those roads. Things get seriously bumpy and dusty in Morocco. Fork out a few extra dirhams on car hire for a 4×4. Your seat bones will thank you for it. Besides, who wants to be changing a tire when the surf’s just right?
When it comes to wetsuits, what to wear in Morocco changes with the seasons. Take a peek at the sea temperatures before you pack that suitcase. Lastly, let’s talk boards. Board hire in Morocco is cheap – saving you any excess baggage charge. Though, if you don’t surf anywhere without yours – a basic shortboard is all you’ll need for the majority of beaches.
